The incoming President of the Sierra Leone Bar Association (SLBA), Madam Martina Egbenda, and her Vice President, Nicky Spencer Coker, have received a warm welcome from members of the legal fraternity as they attended the Association’s Emergency General Meeting (EGM) and leadership transition ceremony.

Madam Egbenda and her vice president were greeted with a standing ovation as they entered the venue, with young and senior lawyers expressing their support and willingness to work with the incoming leadership once they officially assume office.

The ceremony forms part of the process marking the end of the tenure of the outgoing SLBA President, Tuma Jabbie, who is expected to hand over the affairs of the Association to a caretaker body that will oversee its operations until a new AGM and elections are conducted.

Jabbie’s tenure comes to an end following a period marked by internal disputes and controversies within the legal body, beginning with the disputed SLBA elections held in Kenema in 2024.

The election process generated concerns among some members over alleged irregularities and disagreements regarding the credibility of the outcome. The disagreements later resurfaced in 2026, with renewed debates surrounding the voter register, membership subscriptions, and the eligibility of members to participate in Association activities.

Tensions further intensified during the Association’s recent AGM, which was abruptly suspended following police intervention amid disagreements and allegations among members.

The caretaker body is expected to focus on stabilising the Association, addressing outstanding concerns, and preparing the foundation for a credible AGM and fresh elections aimed at restoring unity and confidence among members.

The leadership transition comes at a significant moment for the SLBA, with members hoping that the new direction will help resolve internal divisions and strengthen the governance of Sierra Leone’s premier legal institution.